MIRECC / CoE

NewsFlash | Adaptive Sports

National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic

The National Disabled Veterans Golf Clinic (NDVGC) is a week-long adaptive golf program that is presented by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). This annual event promotes rehabilitation by instructing Veterans with specific life-changing disabilities in adaptive golf. In addition to adaptive golf Veterans will be introduced to other adaptive recreational sports. ​All the activities offered by the NDVGC office will give Veterans an opportunity to develop new skills, strengthen their self-esteem, and expand fellowship and camaraderie among the participants. The event provides eligible Veterans with an opportunity to participate in therapeutic adaptive sporting and other recreational activities; which demonstrates that having a visual impairment or physical disability is a conquerable obstacle to an active, fulfilling and rewarding life.

Professional Golfer's Association (PGA) Helping Our Patriots Everywhere (HOPE)

The flagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces the game of golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. The program introduces golf through a developmental 6-8 week curriculum, led by PGA Professionals trained in adaptive golf and military cultural competency. PGA HOPE has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with VA, which enables direct referrals to the PGA HOPE program as a form of therapy. All programs are funded by PGA REACH and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost of programming is free to all Veterans.

Pacific Northwest PGA HOPE (1922)
PO Box 14819, Tumwater, WA 98511-4819
Email: pacnw@pgahq.com
Website: https://pnwpga.com/ 
Office: (360) 456-6496

All programs are funded by PGA REACH and supplemented by PGA Section Foundations, so the cost of programming is free to all Veterans. The PGA of America is one of the world's largest sports organizations, composed of PGA Professionals who work daily to grow interest and participation in the game of golf.

We Got Your 6 Golf Scramble

The Oregon Chapter PGA “We Got Your 6 Scramble” benefiting PGA HOPE Pacific Northwest was held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Claremont Golf Club. 100% of the proceeds go to local PGA HOPE programs via the Pacific Northwest PGA Foundation. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is the flagship military program of PGA REACH, the charitable foundation of the PGA of America. PGA HOPE introduces golf to Veterans and Active Duty Military to enhance their physical, mental, social and emotional well-being. Oregon Chapter PGA is requesting golf course donations of four with carts, lessons, golf equipment—anything that you have that could be a nice donation item to help raise funds for our Veterans! The goal is to raise over $10,000.00 so that our professionals can continue to serve our Veterans and Active Duty Military. Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Department of Veterans Affairs, PGA HOPE receives direct referrals from VA medical centers, establishing golf as a recognized form of therapy and rehabilitation. If you would like more information about the PNW PGA HOPE program, please visit https://pnwpga.com/military-veterans. You can also find a list of PGA HOPE clinics throughout the Pacific Northwest Section. If you would like to attend one of our TopGolf events or sponsor an event, please reach out to Jeff Bojanowski at jjbojo32@gmail.com.

2025 We Got Your Six Scramble Report // On Friday, May 2, 2025, the Pacific Northwest PGA HOPE program hosted its inaugural “We Got Your 6” Fundraising Scramble at Meadow Park Golf Course in Tacoma, Washington. Sponsored by Humana and Freedom Financial, the event brought together the golf community to support local Veterans through the power of the game. The tournament featured 16 teams and a total of 63 golfers. Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of participants and sponsors, the event raised $11,400 to benefit PGA HOPE clinics throughout the Pacific Northwest Section.

American Lake Golf Course

The American Lake Veterans Golf Course is an 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus designed golf course managed, operated, and maintained by 235 volunteers: veterans, spouses, and friends of veterans. American Lake Golf Course is the only golf course in the United States designed to be played by disabled veterans. Recently the front nine greens were renovated with drainage and sand traps shaped to the specifications of the Nicklaus design. The greens renovation included 6-inches of pea gravel and 12-inches of a sandy/loam mixture on top. The surrounds and approaches of the greens are graded with 6 inches of topsoil and seeded perineal rye grass. Volunteers perform a wide variety of functions: management, grounds keeping and course maintenance, maintenance of equipment, check-in of golfers and guests, starters, marshals, scheduling of events, food service for events, training, and golf club repair. The American Lake Veterans Golf Course offers rehabilitation, therapy, socialization and support to those who have given so much for our country.

Moose Run Golf Course Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson //Folds of Honor//

The 2025 Alaska Folds of Honor Championship marked a milestone year, raising a record-setting $21,700 for Folds of Honor—the highest total in the event’s history. These funds help provide scholarships and educational support for the spouses and children of fallen and disabled military service members, honoring their sacrifice through opportunity. The 2026 Alaska Folds of Honor Championship is scheduled for July 11, 2026 at Moose Run Golf Course, located at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in the Anchorage metropolitan area. Moose Run Golf Course is a 36-hole military golf facility open to the public. Moose Run Golf Facility consists of two courses, the Creek Course and the Hill Course. This is the only 36-hole facility in Alaska and one of the premier military golf operations in the world! The facility has earned several awards including: #2 in Alaska, Golf Week’s “Best Courses You Can Play” – (2016, Creek Course) -- #5 in Alaska, Golf Week’s “Best Courses You Can Play” – (2016, Hill Course) -- #4 in Alaska, Golf Digest’s “Best in State” – (2015, Hill Course). Moose Run Golf Course has been working in conjunction with the Alaska VA since 2018 to offer programs to our Alaskan veterans in need of their services. We HOPE to introduce golf to our local heroes and help to improve their quality of life through golf. We became a certified chapter of HOPE through the PGA in 2017.

SWING for a Soldier

While honoring our veterans, warriors and first responders, it is by far one of the best rounds of golf you will ever play in a charity tournament. You won’t forget your experience regardless of your score. Enjoy a beautiful PNW golf course while you support the Permission to Start Dreaming Foundation and the strength-based programs and workshops we are providing for veterans and first responders dealing with post-traumatic stress. For those who have been personally impacted by the innovative training, workshops and monthly huddles, it is truly making a difference. Featuring a great day of golf, reception and awards dinner, expect to be impressed with the prizes and many other activities that are planned for you; “our compassionate allies.” You will be helping us address the very urgent needs for better mental health and wellness resources for our veterans and first responders. 

Eagle's Pride Golf Course at Joint Base Lewis McChord

Construction to build a golf course on Fort Lewis began in 1929. Major reconstruction was completed in 1940. Nearly 100 years later, it's one of the best courses in Western Washington and is open to the general public. Eagles Pride is a 27-hole championship course with exceptional greens, manicured fairways and forgiving rough with tee boxes designed for all levels of golfers. Golfers enjoy year-round practice at our lighted and heated facility that offers 10 covered hitting areas. Eagle's Pride Indoor Golf simulator provides golf with up to eight people. Multi-sport games include Football, Basketball, Hockey, Dodgeball, Baseball, Hockey, Soccer, Rugby, and Cricket.

Whispering Firs Golf Course

Whispering Firs features 18 holes and 6,646 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 72. The course rating is 71.8 and it has a slope rating of 122 on Blue grass. Overall, the golf course is a challenging, yet fair course.

Gallery Golf Course

A challenging 18-hole course layout with tree-lined fairways, rolling hills, and stunning views of Mt Baker, Strait of Juan de Fuca and Vancouver Island. Public always welcome (restrictions apply when purchasing retail) dawn to dusk, every day but Christmas and weather permitting. Features of Gallery Golf Course: Driving Range, Golf Shop, special orders, Online Tee Times for expedited check-in. Although the course welcomes the general public, there are restrictions when it comes to purchasing items in the golf shop. All customers must present proof of Military affiliation to access all retail privileges.

Veterans Golfer Association

The VGA is dedicated to enriching the lives of Veterans and their family members through the camaraderie and sportsmanship of golf. Annually, the VGA hosts more than 450 local tournaments across the country, culminating in a VGA National Championship each fall.

Ocean Therapy

Since 2012, Veterans of the Pacific Northwest enjoy the Oregon coast and learning to surf. The program connects Veterans with a surfing community, provide surf experiences from meetups to ocean therapy, and create a network of veteran surf opportunities along the West Coast, Hawaii and beyond. PNW Veteran Surf is a group of combat Veterans, water people, Veteran family members, and clinicians that create a community around the Pacific Ocean. It offers an innovative form of therapy that combines physical activity with the natural healing environment of the ocean, providing a complementary option to conventional mental health treatments for Veterans. Veterans have experienced the uncoupling of fear and life-threat, building a connection between fear and awe. Oregon Veterans Surfing Project represents a pioneering approach to veteran mental health and community integration. By harnessing the therapeutic potential of surfing and the ocean, coupled with a strong emphasis on building a supportive community, the project offers a valuable resource for Veterans seeking healing and connection. This initiative not only highlights the importance of innovative therapeutic options but also underscores the power of community and nature in supporting Veterans' journeys toward recovery and resilience.

USA Shooting

In April 1995, USA Shooting was formed and became the National Governing Body for the international shooting sports in the United States. USA Shooting, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation was chartered by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee as the National Governing Body for the Olympic Shooting Sports in April 1995. The organization develops and implements programs to promote growth in the sport and serves as a sanctioning body for local and national competitions.

Adaptive Archery

Archery is a sport that is open to everyone; it is inclusive of all ages, genders and abilities. Athletes with physical or cognitive impairments, who may otherwise be dissuaded from participating in sports can participate in archery alongside athletes without any disability. Whether your goal is to just get out and socialize or be active, or to make a U.S. Paralympic or World Championship Team, archery is a sport that lends itself to any need. Simple adaptations to archery programs can break the stigma associated with disabilities and remove the barriers to conversations and interactions among groups of people who might otherwise be separated. This environment can be an enriching experience for all students of archery. Archery is for anyone who wants to participate. Whether the goal is to get out and socialize, become active, or to make a U.S. Olympic, U.S. Paralympic or World Championship Team, archery is a sport that lends itself to any age, interest and ability. USA Archery Clubs provide an environment where participants of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the sport of archery recreationally, competitively or as a high performing athlete.

Paralyzed Veterans of America Air Gun Program

PVA Air Gun Programs are made up of in-person events designed to introduce and engage participants in the sport of air gun shooting. With their versatility and accessibility, air guns remain a popular choice for participants of all experience levels. The program emphasizes skill development, safety, and enjoyment in a supportive and adaptive environment. Shooting sports offer a unique combination of focus, discipline, and mental resilience, making them especially impactful for Veterans and individuals with disabilities. Participants can compete at their own pace while working toward personal and competitive goals. These matches allow competitors to shoot at their home range and compete against others across the country. PVA adaptive sports programs are open to all individuals with disabilities, including people with amputation, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, or neurological disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. PVA works closely with its chapter leadership and other organizations to help identify potential funding sources for athlete grants. 

Parks and Recreation Benefits //Hunting and Fishing Licenses//

Many states provide free or reduced-cost hunting and fishing licenses for Military Veterans. To view the benefits available to you by each U.S. state or territory, click on the map below or select from the drop down menu. Each fact sheet contains details of the benefits available to Veterans and family members.

National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic

The adaptive sports program is designed for Veterans whose current rehabilitation goals would benefit from the value of adaptive summer sports. Adaptive sports included are sailing, surfing, adaptive fitness, kayaking, cycling, yoga and meditation. A rehabilitative and educational hands-on sporting event for military Veterans from across the country who have a range of disabilities, including Amputations, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Poly Trauma, Visual Impairments, Multiple Sclerosis, CVA with Residual, Burns, and Spinal Cord Injuries. Rehabilitation events specifically designed for Veterans with disabilities allow eligible participants to gain motivation, improve their independence, achieve a healthier lifestyle, and enjoy a higher quality of life. NVSSC is open to all Veterans enrolled in VA health care. All applications are subject to review by the NVSSC Medical Director and NVSSC Director. Wounded Warrior Project is proud to be the Presenting Sponsor of the National Veterans Summer Sports Clinic and is honored to work with the Department of Veterans Affairs to support veterans on their journey to fitness and rehabilitation through sports. Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) is the Summer Sports Clinic Founding Sponsor. Champion Sponsors include Fisher House Foundation and the Hero Miles Program. 

National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic

For more than three decades, the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic has helped many of our nation’s most profoundly disabled veterans overcome obstacles and challenge their perceived limitations. The event is sponsored by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), with financial assistance from corporate sponsors and individual donors. Veterans with traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, orthopedic amputations, visual impairments, certain neurological conditions and other disabilities are empowered to challenge perceived limitations by participating in adaptive sports that improve their overall health and outlook. Veterans are provided with training in adaptive downhill skiing, nordic skiing, sled hockey, curling, scuba diving, rock wall climbing, fishing, and a number of other adaptive sports, education, and activities.

National Veterans Wheelchair Games

The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is the world’s largest annual wheelchair sports and rehabilitation event solely for military veteran s. The event demonstrates the unstoppable character of veterans and seeks to foster wider respect and opportunities for all people with disabilities. The National Veterans Wheelchair Games is open to all U.S. veterans with spinal cord injuries, amputations, multiple sclerosis, or other central neurological conditions who require a wheelchair for athletic competition. Every year, hundreds of American heroes from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the post-9/11 era compete in this celebration of sport, courage and camaraderie.

National Veterans Golden Age Games

VA's National Veterans Golden Age Games encourages Veterans age 55 and over, enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), to make physical activity a central part of their lives and support VA’s comprehensive recreation and rehabilitation therapy programs. It is a national showcase for the preventive and therapeutic value of sports, fitness and recreation for all older Americans. The qualifying procedures and rules of competition for the Games are based upon those set forth by the recognized National Governing Body (NGB) for each sport: Air Pistol, Air Rifle, Badminton, Basketball, Boccia, Bowling, Cornhole, Cycling, Disc Golf, Golf, Horseshoes, Nine Ball, Pickleball, Power Walking, Shuffleboard, Swimming, Table Tennis, Track & Field. Through its “Fitness for Life” motto, the Golden Age Games offers sports competitions and health education sessions to demonstrate the value that sports, wellness, and fitness provide to assist senior Veterans live an active and healthy lifestyle.

Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Live from the DoD Warrior Games  // WKXL (FM-101, Audio) // The National Defense Radio Show

We welcome back Ken Fisher to the program to discuss Fisher House’s sponsorship of the 2024 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Randy and Ken discuss the event, why it is important for Fisher House to support these men and women, and give an update on where Fisher House’s mission is heading today.

Entrance to National Parks for Current Military, Veterans, and Gold Star Families

Learn about entrance passes that give current US military, veterans, and Gold Star Families free access to national parks. A free annual Military Pass is available for current US military members and their dependents. A free lifetime Military Pass is available for Gold Star Families and US military veterans. The Gold Star voucher and Military Lifetime Pass cover entrance fees at national parks and national wildlife refuges as well as standard amenity fees (day use fees) at national forests and grasslands and on lands managed by the National Park Service (NPS), US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation and US Army Corps of Engineers. The passes provide free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests. An Access Pass may also provide discounts for expanded amenities like camping, guided tours etc.

• Current members of the US Armed Forces and their dependents can enter national parks for free with an Interagency Military Annual Pass through the America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass (Interagency) Program. There are a total of eight Interagency Passes available. For more information and to obtain these passes, please visit the USGS Online Store.
• Gold Star Families are next of kin of a member of the US Armed Forces who lost his or her life in a “qualifying situation,” such as a war, an international terrorist attack, or a military operation outside of the United States while serving with the US Armed Forces. Eligibility requirements are in section 3.2 of Department of Defense Instruction 1348.36. Gold Star Families are eligible to get a free Military Lifetime Pass.
• Individuals who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, and are able to present one of the following valid non-expired forms of identification when entering or using federal lands: (1) Department of Defense Identification Card (DD Form 2, DD Form 2765, or Next Generation USID replacement), (2) Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC), (3) Veteran ID Card, (4) Veterans designation on a state-issued U.S.driver’s license or identification card.

Camping

Sometimes spending a day in the wilderness isn't quite enough to truly capture the feeling of a special place. Sure, you see some amazing views or go on an unforgettable hike. But to get the full experience, you yearn to see the dark, starry skies. To listen to the yips of coyotes. To watch the sun rise on a silent, dewy morning. Camping in the great outdoors transforms a regular old road trip into an epic experience. So pack up your tent or hitch up the fifth wheel — adventure awaits.

Trails and Hiking

Time to lace up your hiking boots! Maybe a strenuous trek up a mighty peak is what you’re after. Or maybe you see yourself walking along an ancient trail that our ancestors used. Perhaps meandering down a boardwalk is more your speed. Park staff and volunteers work hard to keep trails safe for visitors and follow conservation laws to help protect our natural resources. National parks offer many opportunities to hit the trail. Get ready, adventure awaits.

Biking

Biking through national parks is a great way to see beautiful scenery and discover new places. Cyclists can travel by roads (which are sometimes car-free!) and, in some parks, on select trails. There are many places in parks that cars cannot go, but you can cover more ground and visit new places on a bike. Some national parks offer bike rentals, and others provide guided biking activities. Find out more about biking in national parks.

Military Adaptive Sports Program (MASP)

Military Adaptive Sports is designed to enhance recovery by engaging wounded, injured, and ill Service members early in individualized physical and cognitive activities outside of traditional therapy settings. The program hopes to inspire recovery and physical fitness and encourage new opportunities for growth and achievement. The benefits of physical activity for injured Service members include reduced stress, increased quality of life, lower blood pressure, weight management, and enhancement of the rehabilitative process. Site Coordinators facilitate daily activities, access to community-based events and resources, sports camps, and clinics. MASP offers a variety of single-sport clinics, multiple-sport camps, and mentorship opportunities to help wounded, injured, and ill Service members learn new skills and promote lifelong fitness and well-being. 

VA Office of National Veterans Sports Programs

Interested in becoming a Paralympic athlete? Veterans with disabilities can compete with the national Olympic Team, as authorized by 38 U.S.C. 322(d) and Section 703 of the Veterans' Benefits Improvement Act of 2008. VA’s Office of National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events provides Veterans with opportunities for health and healing through adaptive sports and therapeutic art programs. The monthly allowance rate for an athlete approved for monetary assistance is the same as the 38 U.S.C. Chapter 31 Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) rate. Detailed requirements, performance standards, training plans are available from the VA Office of National Veterans Sports Programs. These specialized rehabilitation events aim to optimize Veterans’ independence, community engagement, well-being, and quality of life. The VA National Veterans Sports Programs & Special Events Office provides a monthly assistance allowance for Veterans with disabilities training in Paralympic sports.

Department of Defense Warrior Games

The Department of Defense Warrior Games is an annual event, first held in 2010, that celebrates the resiliency and dedication of wounded, injured, and ill active duty and veteran U.S. military Service members. Men and women representing the U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, Space Force, and U.S. Special Operations Command compete in a variety of adaptive sports. The DoD Warrior Games Challenge serves to enhance the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded warriors by providing them exposure to adaptive sports. The adaptive sports featured in the DoD Warrior Games are a part of the larger DoD Warrior Care program. Within this program, adaptive sports provide reconditioning activities and competitive athletic opportunities to all wounded, ill and injured service members to improve their physical and mental wellness throughout the continuum of recovery and transition. Modified equipment and additional classification systems allow each athlete to compete, regardless of their injury or illness.

VA Regional Offices

The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) helps service members transition out of military service, and assists with Veterans with education, home loans, life insurance and much more. Service members, Veterans, their families, and Survivors are invited to request information on VA Benefits including disability compensation, pension, fiduciary, education, Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E), Home Loans, and Insurance. In addition to information on VA Benefits Veterans may initiate an intent to file and request assistance with filing compensation and pension claims. Visit regional office websites to learn about the services the regional office provides, directions to the facility, hours of operation, and the leadership team that serves the regional office.

Find out if you can get VA health care as a Veteran

The following resources provide detailed information about VA health care: www.va.gov/health-care/ and toll-free at 877-222-VETS (877-222-8387), Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET., or 1-800-MyVA411 (800-698-2411), option 2.

Basic Eligibility: A person who served in the active military, naval, space or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, including qualifying Reserve and National Guard members, may qualify for VA health care benefits.

Minimum Duty Requirements: Veterans who enlisted after September 7, 1980, or who entered active duty after October 16, 1981, must have served 24-continuous months or the full period for which they were called to active duty to be eligible. This minimum duty requirement may not apply to Veterans discharged for hardship, early out or a disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or those accessing care under certain special treatment authorities, such as treatment related to military sexual trauma (MST).

Returning Service members: Veterans who served in a theater of operations after November 11, 2001, are eligible for an extended period of eligibility for health care for ten years after their discharge. In the case of multiple call-ups, the ten-year enrollment period begins on the most recent discharge date. This special eligibility includes cost-free health care services and nursing home care for conditions possibly related to military service and enrollment in priority group 6 or higher for ten years from their date of discharge or release from active duty, unless they are eligible for enrollment in a higher priority group.

The following four categories of Veterans are not required to enroll but are urged to do so to permit better planning of health resources:

1. Veterans with a service-connected disability rated at 50% or more.
2. Veterans seeking care for a disability the military determined was incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, but which VA has not yet rated, within 12 months of discharge.
3. Veterans seeking care for a service-connected disability only, or under a special treatment authority.
4. Veterans seeking registry examinations (ionizing radiation, Agent Orange, Gulf War/Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) depleted uranium, airborne hazards, and Open Burn Pit Registry). Use the chart below to help determine your eligibility.

Find out how to apply for VA health care benefits as a Veteran or service member. For other mental health services, contact a VA medical center for information on eligibility and treatment options.

The seal of the Department of Veterans Affairs authenticates the 2025 edition of Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents Survivors and Caregivers as the official summary of benefits that have been separately promulgated under Federal regulations established under Register Act. Under the provisions of 38 Code of Federal Regulations 1.9(f), it is prohibited to use the official seal, replicas, reproductions, or embossed seals of the Department of Veterans Affairs on any republication of this material without the express, written permission of the Secretary or Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs. Any person using official seals and logos of the Department of Veterans Affairs in a manner inconsistent with the provisions of 38 Code of Federal Regulations 1.9 may be subject to the penalties specified in 18 United States Code 506, 701, or 1017 as applicable.

Community Care (Mission Act)

The MISSION Act became law in 2018, bringing the VA’s previous Veterans Choice Program to an end and establishing the Community Care Program. VA provides health care for Veterans from providers in your local community outside of VA. Veterans may be eligible to receive care from a community provider when VA cannot provide the care needed. This care is provided on behalf of and paid for by VA. Community care is also available to Veterans based on certain conditions and eligibility requirements, and in consideration of a Veteran’s specific needs and circumstances. VA offers urgent care services to eligible Veterans at in-network urgent care clinics to treat minor injuries and illnesses that are not life-threatening, such as colds, strep throat, sprained muscles, and skin and ear infections. Community care must be first authorized by VA before a Veteran can receive care from a community provider. Veterans, their representatives, and in-network community providers should report instances of a Veteran presenting to a community emergency room to VA within 72 hours of the start of emergent care. Out-of-network providers are encouraged to notify VA as soon as possible. PHONE: 844-724-7842 (844-72HRVHA) IMPORTANT: Failure to notify VA of care rendered through an in-network community facility in a timely manner prevents VA from authorizing the emergency care, and prevents claims and payments from being made through one of VA’s third-party administrators.

VA Vet Centers

Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible Veterans, active-duty Army, Navy, Marine Corp, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their families. 1-877-927-8387 is an around the clock confidential call center where combat Veterans and their families can call to talk about their military experience or any other issue they are facing in their readjustment to civilian life. The staff is comprised of combat Veterans from several eras as well as families members of combat Veterans. This benefit is prepaid through the Veteran’s military service.

Plan your trip to VA

In 1946, Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) was established by law to provide comfort and well-being to America’s Veterans. With our many retail stores, cafés and coffee shops across the country, we serve those who have served our country. VCS is proud to offer Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare, their families and VA employees exclusive shopping benefits online through Patriot Store Direct. Product categories range from Military Caps and apparel, Outdoors, Electronics, Automotive tires (Goodyear, Bridgestone, Firestone, and Fuzion), Tickets and Travel, Vision (Glasses and Contact Lenses), Home and Kitchen, Floral, Toys, Gifts, Watches, and more. We are honored to give back to the VA community through many programs established for the health and well-being of our nation’s heroes. Revenues generated from VCS are used to support a variety of programs, such as VA’s Rehabilitation Games, Fisher Houses, Poly-Trauma Centers for OEF/OIF/OND Veterans, disaster relief efforts, Substance Abuse Cessation, VA’s Homelessness initiatives, Women Veterans, Veteran Suicide Prevention and other activities.

Hospital Service Directory

To find out whether there is a van near you, use the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Hospital Service Coordinator Directory to contact your nearest HSC. The vans are driven by volunteers, and the rides coordinated by more than 133 Hospital Service Coordinators around the country. Our nation’s heroes travel around the globe to protect our freedoms—it’s only right that we return their dedication. Volunteering to drive a Vet ensures that even those living remotely from VA hospitals can make their appointments and never go without the treatment they need. Please remember that the DAV Transportation Network is staffed by volunteers; therefore, it is unable to cover every community. Learn more about the DAV transportation network through the NewsFlash Resources section.

Since the program’s inception in 1987, DAV departments and chapters have donated 4,183 vehicles and Ford Motor Co. has donated 274 vehicles at a cost of more than $104 million. Ford’s support for DAV spans nearly 100 years. The relationship began when Henry Ford provided Model Ts so DAV members could attend their annual convention. Today, Ford continues to provide funding and vehicle donations to help transport veterans to their medical appointments.

Use of these Materials and Finding VA Health Care

Please note that the health care information provided in these materials is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the role of a medical practitioner for advice on care and treatment. If you are looking for professional medical care, find your local VA healthcare center by using the VA Facilities Locator & Directory. This page may contain links that will take you outside of the Department of Veterans Affairs website. VA does not endorse and is not responsible for the content of the linked websites.

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